7 Ways To Teach Politeness To Your Child

“Politeness is a sign of dignity, not subservience.” – Theodore Roosevelt.

We live in an ultra-competitive world where the drive to succeed often overshadows the importance of empathy. However, our collective indifference is not a badge of honor; it’s a loss of our human fiber. In this fast-paced environment, children naturally absorb what they see and hear, shaping their perception of what is ‘normal.’ This may explain why each generation feels that politeness is on the decline among kids. Teaching good manners for kids is more important than ever to ensure they grow up with kindness, respect, and strong social skills.

Children aren’t entirely at fault. Parents have an important part in shaping their children's manners. At DIY, we interact with kids daily and observe how different children respond differently to similar situations. Based on our experience, here are some essential tips to help foster politeness in children.

Children don’t just admire their parents; they emulate them. They pick up on everything, from how you talk to how you walk. Parents must be consciously polite—not just with their children but also their partners, fellow parents, friends, and house help. Your tone, vocabulary, and actions reflect your character, influencing your child’s behavior.

Nothing reassures a child more than knowing their parent is invested in their emotional well-being. Have meaningful conversations about why politeness and kindness matter. However, avoid making it sound like a command. Politeness cannot be forced; it must be understood as a sign of strength, not weakness.

When children display polite behavior, acknowledge it with kind words of appreciation. Positive reinforcement lets them know their good manners are being observed and valued. Since children seek their parents’ approval more than anyone else’s, a little encouragement can go a long way.

Sometimes, children struggle to express themselves due to a limited vocabulary. Introduce simple yet powerful words like ‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘excuse me,’ ‘sorry,’ and ‘beg your pardon.’ When they hear you using these words, they naturally incorporate them into their speech.

One of the golden rules of parenting is not to expect instant results. Children are still learning and will make mistakes. Please give them the space to grow, understand, and practice politeness at their own pace. Losing patience with them can be counterproductive, as it sets a poor example.

Children love stories. Leverage this by sharing tales of historical figures who embodied politeness and good manners. There are countless examples of well-mannered leaders whose stories can inspire kids to be more courteous. Build on these narratives to instill essential values.

It may be tempting to offer rewards in exchange for good behavior, but this approach sets unrealistic expectations. Instead, teach children that being polite is a fundamental part of life, not something that needs to be incentivized.

Politeness is a crucial life skill that shapes a child’s future interactions and relationships. Parents can raise respectful and well-mannered children by being role models, engaging in conversations, and reinforcing good manners.

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